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Would YOU love a monster girl?
Andrew hunts monsters as a member of the Non-Human Investigative Corps, and he's very good at his job. Unfortunately, the skills he honed to keep the peace aren't much use in the cutthroat world of city politics, and a recent civil ruling is forcing the integration of the once exclusively human NHIC!
Velise is a beautiful arachne noble sent to the human-ruled city of Daytau as part of a diplomatic boondoggle to prove her political skills to her matriarch. A chance encounter with Andrew leaves her wanting to know more, and the integration gives her an opportunity both to sate her curiosity and advance her ambitions.
Yet the barroom brawl Andrew diffused for her sake was no accident, and city hall would love nothing more than to end his career. Forced by circumstance both to protect and rely on a monster, Andrew comes to an uncomfortable realization.
Velise might just be everything he ever wanted in a woman ...
Warning: This book does not pan to waving curtains and fade to black. Those uninterested or under the age of eighteen are strongly warned of explicit consensual content.
Andrew hunts monsters as a member of the Non-Human Investigative Corps, and he's very good at his job. Unfortunately, the skills he honed to keep the peace aren't much use in the cutthroat world of city politics, and a recent civil ruling is forcing the integration of the once exclusively human NHIC!
Velise is a beautiful arachne noble sent to the human-ruled city of Daytau as part of a diplomatic boondoggle to prove her political skills to her matriarch. A chance encounter with Andrew leaves her wanting to know more, and the integration gives her an opportunity both to sate her curiosity and advance her ambitions.
Yet the barroom brawl Andrew diffused for her sake was no accident, and city hall would love nothing more than to end his career. Forced by circumstance both to protect and rely on a monster, Andrew comes to an uncomfortable realization.
Velise might just be everything he ever wanted in a woman ...
Warning: This book does not pan to waving curtains and fade to black. Those uninterested or under the age of eighteen are strongly warned of explicit consensual content.
382 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 24, 2021
240 people are currently reading
660 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
January 31, 2024
This was a fascinating genre twist. You would expect it, with that sub-title, to be the first in a harem story. But it seems this series is more like you get in romance where each book features a different couple in the same world. So it's more of a romance subgenre than anything else.
And it works surprisingly well as such. There's some fun action and a plot that keeps a great pace for the main characters to bounce off each other despite coming from completely different worlds. So seeing them develop respect for each other that blooms into more was exactly what I'd expect for a decent romance with mystery elements.
I have a hard time with romantic-suspense so I want to be clear that this doesn't have many of those markers. There's danger to both protagonists, but you don't get the isolating and ramping threat more common to that romance genre. So nobody saves the other from dire peril that we see coming half a book away. And for me, that's a good thing.
Anyway, I enjoyed this more than I expected I would and think it's a solid four stars. The romance doesn't quite connect and Velise's arachae physique isn't even a little engaging for me personally. Plus, see below for a note about romance that I found strange. All that said, I'm definitely interested in more along the same lines and can't wait to explore this series.
A note about romance expectations: Most of the romances I read are written by women for women and there's a certain flavor to both the romance and the steam as a result. This is obviously written by a man for men and has a correspondingly different flavor in the romance and steam. I don't want to say that it's written for the male gaze, but that's definitely a factor. I'm not sure I can explain it entirely, but I'd be interested in the experiences of others to see what they think.
A note about Steamy: There are a couple of explicit sex scenes putting this in the middle of my steam tolerance. Velise is not human though she's more-or-less sexually compatible with humans for background reasons. I'm not sure how to process that into how well the sex worked as part of the story, though I did enjoy how different their perspectives were for the emotional aspects of love and sex and the relationship discussions that happened as a result.
And it works surprisingly well as such. There's some fun action and a plot that keeps a great pace for the main characters to bounce off each other despite coming from completely different worlds. So seeing them develop respect for each other that blooms into more was exactly what I'd expect for a decent romance with mystery elements.
I have a hard time with romantic-suspense so I want to be clear that this doesn't have many of those markers. There's danger to both protagonists, but you don't get the isolating and ramping threat more common to that romance genre. So nobody saves the other from dire peril that we see coming half a book away. And for me, that's a good thing.
Anyway, I enjoyed this more than I expected I would and think it's a solid four stars. The romance doesn't quite connect and Velise's arachae physique isn't even a little engaging for me personally. Plus, see below for a note about romance that I found strange. All that said, I'm definitely interested in more along the same lines and can't wait to explore this series.
A note about romance expectations: Most of the romances I read are written by women for women and there's a certain flavor to both the romance and the steam as a result. This is obviously written by a man for men and has a correspondingly different flavor in the romance and steam. I don't want to say that it's written for the male gaze, but that's definitely a factor. I'm not sure I can explain it entirely, but I'd be interested in the experiences of others to see what they think.
A note about Steamy: There are a couple of explicit sex scenes putting this in the middle of my steam tolerance. Velise is not human though she's more-or-less sexually compatible with humans for background reasons. I'm not sure how to process that into how well the sex worked as part of the story, though I did enjoy how different their perspectives were for the emotional aspects of love and sex and the relationship discussions that happened as a result.
January 23, 2024
More romance than you would expect from Cebelius
political thriller/cop drama with slow burn romance. Not exactly enemies to lovers, But this is not a LitRPG, harem, porn-fest. This is smart writing, a serious story (except for the busty monster girl), and a notable lack of smut until the 75% mark. Even then, what sex there is takes a back seat to the story. Smart, independent female character, solid likeable male lead. There are places where the plot drags, but over all I'm impressed.
UPDATE 2 years later:
I've just reread this book and I'm more impressed the second time.
political thriller/cop drama with slow burn romance. Not exactly enemies to lovers, But this is not a LitRPG, harem, porn-fest. This is smart writing, a serious story (except for the busty monster girl), and a notable lack of smut until the 75% mark. Even then, what sex there is takes a back seat to the story. Smart, independent female character, solid likeable male lead. There are places where the plot drags, but over all I'm impressed.
UPDATE 2 years later:
I've just reread this book and I'm more impressed the second time.
October 13, 2021
Delicious Characters and Plot
One of the things that this author does very well is characters, and he proves it (again) in this stand-alone story. The leads’ every aspect: attitudes, focus, looks, history, and most fun - dialogue- are on display as they grow into working with each other. It’s crafted as nicely as any hard-boiled film noir detective and “the woman” who walks into his office to turn his world upside down. Added to that is a fascinating new world that’s only very lightly touched on for plot support, and you have an environment that can support not just a sequel to this story, but a nice range of similar stories with very different characters. Those stories could combine visits from previously mentioned characters (or not). Sweet.
The plot is satisfying without being too twisty (or too simple) and the intimacy is not just physical, but adds a bit of humor and maturity that take it to the next level. Not to mention the bit of kink needed to actually get it on enjoyably with another species.
All in all this is a very nicely crafted - and I use that term specifically - adult piece of fiction, with memorable and meaningful characters (even the sides and bad guys) with a plot that keeps you turning the page. Definitely recommended (20+) and I hope to see more like it.
One of the things that this author does very well is characters, and he proves it (again) in this stand-alone story. The leads’ every aspect: attitudes, focus, looks, history, and most fun - dialogue- are on display as they grow into working with each other. It’s crafted as nicely as any hard-boiled film noir detective and “the woman” who walks into his office to turn his world upside down. Added to that is a fascinating new world that’s only very lightly touched on for plot support, and you have an environment that can support not just a sequel to this story, but a nice range of similar stories with very different characters. Those stories could combine visits from previously mentioned characters (or not). Sweet.
The plot is satisfying without being too twisty (or too simple) and the intimacy is not just physical, but adds a bit of humor and maturity that take it to the next level. Not to mention the bit of kink needed to actually get it on enjoyably with another species.
All in all this is a very nicely crafted - and I use that term specifically - adult piece of fiction, with memorable and meaningful characters (even the sides and bad guys) with a plot that keeps you turning the page. Definitely recommended (20+) and I hope to see more like it.
May 28, 2022
Buy everything by this author
I was introduced to this author in mask of the template. I thought it was really good, but I'm not a fan of the harem genre. now I come to find out Cebelius wrote a series featuring monogamous couples. And it's official. I'm totally a fan and going to keep up with this author's future projects
I was introduced to this author in mask of the template. I thought it was really good, but I'm not a fan of the harem genre. now I come to find out Cebelius wrote a series featuring monogamous couples. And it's official. I'm totally a fan and going to keep up with this author's future projects
August 6, 2022
Rating 4.0 stars
This book isn't what I was expecting. With the title you would think this is some harem erotic fantasy where the MC gets to have sex with all sorts of sexy monster girls like cat girls or succubus. That isn't what we got though. Instead we have a normal thriller with the back drop of having monsters in the story. The monster part was almost secondary to the telling of the story. The two main characters could have been replaced with a Jewish man and Palestine woman and fundamentals of the story could have been the same. So the underlying story isn't about having sex with hot monster girls. It comes down to can two people from different backgrounds that don't get along (in this case a human monster hunter and an arachnid monster girl) actually get together and fall in love? I really enjoy the way this author writes. There is a flow to his work that makes it an easy read. Even though the premise was somewhat simple I was invested in the story trying to figure out what was going to happen next.
The story is told from 2 points of view. One is the police officer on the monster hunting division who has been doing this job for 20 years. He is a no nonsense hard ass that doesn't care about politics but whose men really love him because of how competent he is at his job. The other main character is a monster girl arachnid who is sort of a diplomatic transfer to the city. There is tension between the races. While monsters are more powerful than humans there are laws in human cities that are very favorable to humans. If a human confronts a monster they must immediately try and leave the situation. If they cause harm, even in self defense the monster will likely be killed and the humans will get away with it. That is how these two first meet. He is out getting a beer at his favorite bar when he sees a group of humans hassling her. He steps in before it becomes a situation. Turns out there is more here than either originally thought. Turns out there was a broader conspiracy and she finds out that assassins are after her. Before they knew this she ended up working for him so it ends up being his job to protect her. Overall I was really into the first 3/4 of the story. I was a little disappointed in how it ended. There were quite a few things that were not dealt with that I felt should have been Overall this was a good read and it is somewhat of a different take on the monster girl genre. I am interested to see where the series goes from here.
This book isn't what I was expecting. With the title you would think this is some harem erotic fantasy where the MC gets to have sex with all sorts of sexy monster girls like cat girls or succubus. That isn't what we got though. Instead we have a normal thriller with the back drop of having monsters in the story. The monster part was almost secondary to the telling of the story. The two main characters could have been replaced with a Jewish man and Palestine woman and fundamentals of the story could have been the same. So the underlying story isn't about having sex with hot monster girls. It comes down to can two people from different backgrounds that don't get along (in this case a human monster hunter and an arachnid monster girl) actually get together and fall in love? I really enjoy the way this author writes. There is a flow to his work that makes it an easy read. Even though the premise was somewhat simple I was invested in the story trying to figure out what was going to happen next.
The story is told from 2 points of view. One is the police officer on the monster hunting division who has been doing this job for 20 years. He is a no nonsense hard ass that doesn't care about politics but whose men really love him because of how competent he is at his job. The other main character is a monster girl arachnid who is sort of a diplomatic transfer to the city. There is tension between the races. While monsters are more powerful than humans there are laws in human cities that are very favorable to humans. If a human confronts a monster they must immediately try and leave the situation. If they cause harm, even in self defense the monster will likely be killed and the humans will get away with it. That is how these two first meet. He is out getting a beer at his favorite bar when he sees a group of humans hassling her. He steps in before it becomes a situation. Turns out there is more here than either originally thought. Turns out there was a broader conspiracy and she finds out that assassins are after her. Before they knew this she ended up working for him so it ends up being his job to protect her. Overall I was really into the first 3/4 of the story. I was a little disappointed in how it ended. There were quite a few things that were not dealt with that I felt should have been Overall this was a good read and it is somewhat of a different take on the monster girl genre. I am interested to see where the series goes from here.
October 16, 2021
This was not what I expected.
I did not like this purely because of content. The writing is fine so that is what the three stars are for. If you are into noir, this is for you. If not, then like me, you will not enjoy reading this in the slightest. I did not like the characters or the setting, and every page I had to force myself to go on. Noir is not my thing, otherwise I might have enjoyed this.
I did not like this purely because of content. The writing is fine so that is what the three stars are for. If you are into noir, this is for you. If not, then like me, you will not enjoy reading this in the slightest. I did not like the characters or the setting, and every page I had to force myself to go on. Noir is not my thing, otherwise I might have enjoyed this.
September 26, 2021
monster girl romance
A murder mystery police procedural monster girl romance book. That’s what i just read. It had plenty of politics and a few spicy scenes. Mostly it was a good solid romance with a nonhuman partner
A murder mystery police procedural monster girl romance book. That’s what i just read. It had plenty of politics and a few spicy scenes. Mostly it was a good solid romance with a nonhuman partner
October 16, 2021
I have read and enjoyed almost all of this author's works, so it was no surprise to me that I would enjoy this book from the start of a new series. I always found driders in the old AD&D table top game interesting but never thought of what complications sex with one would entail.
Note: if you do not like graphic sex between a human male and a spider woman, avoid this book.
Note #2: spoilers ahead you have been warned.
I did like the character development of the crusty jaded detective, but felt it was a little light on Velise. I would have liked to have seen more back story on the arachne as a whole. The author did an excellent job dropping little hints as to how the arachne society works, and some light bits of their culture. Perhaps in later books (or if Ceb does a Velise #2) we might see more of the arachne culture, especially if Velise takes her new hubby home to meet his new mother in law.
There was some good action, but I would have liked more shooting and action (loved the stuff around the warehouse).
The sex is slightly more frequent than his other books but also a bit less graphic. Not FTB, but not Penthouse Letters worthy stroke material either. YMMV
Never considered how acrobatic sex with a spider woman could be and what positions might be possible with someone who can stand on her head for hours.
Overall, I liked this book and read it in one shot; staying up way too late and earning a disapproving glare from my spouse for waking her when I did finally climb into bed. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
Note: if you do not like graphic sex between a human male and a spider woman, avoid this book.
Note #2: spoilers ahead you have been warned.
I did like the character development of the crusty jaded detective, but felt it was a little light on Velise. I would have liked to have seen more back story on the arachne as a whole. The author did an excellent job dropping little hints as to how the arachne society works, and some light bits of their culture. Perhaps in later books (or if Ceb does a Velise #2) we might see more of the arachne culture, especially if Velise takes her new hubby home to meet his new mother in law.
There was some good action, but I would have liked more shooting and action (loved the stuff around the warehouse).
The sex is slightly more frequent than his other books but also a bit less graphic. Not FTB, but not Penthouse Letters worthy stroke material either. YMMV
Never considered how acrobatic sex with a spider woman could be and what positions might be possible with someone who can stand on her head for hours.
Overall, I liked this book and read it in one shot; staying up way too late and earning a disapproving glare from my spouse for waking her when I did finally climb into bed. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 30, 2021
Still Got it
With each new series Ceb proves (imo) that his first series wasn't a fluke. Great characters & great by play are the sticking point to sell this noir story of an old jaded detective & very analytical power hungry arachne. Tho towards the end Velise's inhumanness almost shined too true & almost made me dislike the character the end showed that maybe love does conquer all even differences in species + thought.
With each new series Ceb proves (imo) that his first series wasn't a fluke. Great characters & great by play are the sticking point to sell this noir story of an old jaded detective & very analytical power hungry arachne. Tho towards the end Velise's inhumanness almost shined too true & almost made me dislike the character the end showed that maybe love does conquer all even differences in species + thought.
March 13, 2022
This book isn't quite up to the same quality as the other stories by this author.
It started out really well, introducing us to an interesting new world and an excellent protagonist. This takes place in a world where monster races have emerged on earth and humans were nearly wiped out before advancing their technology far enough to secure an uneasy peace between the different species. The resulting society (at least in the part of the world where the story is taking place) is reminiscent of a wild-west style setting with futuristic elements.
This book's equivalent of a 'sheriff' in a western would be the protagonist, who is a mixture of a detective and monster hunter. He fits into the role of the middle-aged gun-slinger who's trying to put his action-filled life behind him as his age has brought him a deeper level of wisdom. Throw the curveball of having to incorporate monsters into the ranks of his police force for political reasons, and you actually have an interesting dynamic building here.
The problem for me however is that this isn't really something that was explored all that much. The clear draw (for this reader at least) was the interesting world-building and the highly competent protagonist, both of which were leading this story in the direction of an action novel. Instead what we get is a political romance where the main character doesn't really get to do what he is best at. A result of this is that his character almost gets watered down over the events of the novel to the point where it is obvious that it is the plot leading the characters, and not the other way around. He is clearly going where the plot wants him to go for the sake of the story, and that sapped my investment in this story.
Ultimately I think that I admire this book for the fact that the author took a risk in exploring something new (something I will give credit to authors for doing), but sadly he couldn't quite pull it off here.
It started out really well, introducing us to an interesting new world and an excellent protagonist. This takes place in a world where monster races have emerged on earth and humans were nearly wiped out before advancing their technology far enough to secure an uneasy peace between the different species. The resulting society (at least in the part of the world where the story is taking place) is reminiscent of a wild-west style setting with futuristic elements.
This book's equivalent of a 'sheriff' in a western would be the protagonist, who is a mixture of a detective and monster hunter. He fits into the role of the middle-aged gun-slinger who's trying to put his action-filled life behind him as his age has brought him a deeper level of wisdom. Throw the curveball of having to incorporate monsters into the ranks of his police force for political reasons, and you actually have an interesting dynamic building here.
The problem for me however is that this isn't really something that was explored all that much. The clear draw (for this reader at least) was the interesting world-building and the highly competent protagonist, both of which were leading this story in the direction of an action novel. Instead what we get is a political romance where the main character doesn't really get to do what he is best at. A result of this is that his character almost gets watered down over the events of the novel to the point where it is obvious that it is the plot leading the characters, and not the other way around. He is clearly going where the plot wants him to go for the sake of the story, and that sapped my investment in this story.
Ultimately I think that I admire this book for the fact that the author took a risk in exploring something new (something I will give credit to authors for doing), but sadly he couldn't quite pull it off here.
September 27, 2021
Interesting take on a police procedural/mystery story. Very well written and paced, solid, well-developed primary and secondary characters, and of course, monster girls. Not sure if there will be a sequel (it can stand on its own) but there is still a mystery left as a hanging chad that could be developed. Plus, the overall world and the Cataclysm seems full of possibility. I guess we'll see.
September 30, 2021
My first and it was awesome!
I've never read a 'monster girl' romance before, at least one involving a monogamous relationship with one human male, and I was pleased to be bowled over by the quality of the writing. Cebelius is EXCELLENT.
I've never read a 'monster girl' romance before, at least one involving a monogamous relationship with one human male, and I was pleased to be bowled over by the quality of the writing. Cebelius is EXCELLENT.
September 26, 2021
An excellent near future story with fantasy elements
I really like when authors take traditional fantasy elements (like fantastic races) and place them in modern day earth. Cebelious went further and set his story in a near future earth.
Both main characters are great. Andrew is in his 40s, which makes him quite a bit older than the majority of protagonists, but makes the fact that he’s in such a high position and so competent much more beliveable. He’s had 20 years to get like that after all.
Velise on the other hand is young but extremely ambitious. She’s here in a battle against her sisters in the classical “however gets the most done will lead the family” way.
And them both of them meet and things go sideways.
It was a great story, even if I was a bit unsure about the Arachne. I greatly enjoyed the world building and hope to here more about “The Spite” an gene altering the humanity performed on ourselves to save us from slavery by other races and how it’s leading the world towards extinction (just in case you thought there wasn’t a major plot element)
I really like when authors take traditional fantasy elements (like fantastic races) and place them in modern day earth. Cebelious went further and set his story in a near future earth.
Both main characters are great. Andrew is in his 40s, which makes him quite a bit older than the majority of protagonists, but makes the fact that he’s in such a high position and so competent much more beliveable. He’s had 20 years to get like that after all.
Velise on the other hand is young but extremely ambitious. She’s here in a battle against her sisters in the classical “however gets the most done will lead the family” way.
And them both of them meet and things go sideways.
It was a great story, even if I was a bit unsure about the Arachne. I greatly enjoyed the world building and hope to here more about “The Spite” an gene altering the humanity performed on ourselves to save us from slavery by other races and how it’s leading the world towards extinction (just in case you thought there wasn’t a major plot element)
January 14, 2022
wow!
It took me a really long time to start this book but once I did I was so sorry I hadn’t started it sooner! This was funny, fast paced, and super engaging. Andrew is a man who life has chewed up, spat out and all he has left is his job. Great thing that he’s pretty good at his job and well loved for it. Something called the great cataclysm cause monsters to invade earth. The spite keeps them from forcing humans to procreate with them. Now monsters and humans exist in an uneasy peace. Enter a Velise. And Arachne spidergirl who has to prove to her matron that she’s the best offspring to become heir apparent. Andrew stops her from being mugged and killed in a bar and she used her connections to get a job with him. Which would be Except someone wants to kill her, they aren’t going to stop and they don’t care if they have to kill Andrew to get to her. This was an awesome read and I hope there’s a book 2
It took me a really long time to start this book but once I did I was so sorry I hadn’t started it sooner! This was funny, fast paced, and super engaging. Andrew is a man who life has chewed up, spat out and all he has left is his job. Great thing that he’s pretty good at his job and well loved for it. Something called the great cataclysm cause monsters to invade earth. The spite keeps them from forcing humans to procreate with them. Now monsters and humans exist in an uneasy peace. Enter a Velise. And Arachne spidergirl who has to prove to her matron that she’s the best offspring to become heir apparent. Andrew stops her from being mugged and killed in a bar and she used her connections to get a job with him. Which would be Except someone wants to kill her, they aren’t going to stop and they don’t care if they have to kill Andrew to get to her. This was an awesome read and I hope there’s a book 2
November 24, 2021
Very well Written. I'm surprised.
It's surprising at how one can forget what good writing looks like if you don't see it for long enough. I am impressed with this book. In my opinion it's better than his other series that I've read.
The plot is so much more solid and well thought out. The relationships and diologue likewise have more depth and are well written. I realize it's a slightly different genere. I also add that there were a few thematic choices in the other, longer series that didn't ring well with me. No idea why.
With all that said, I highly recomend it to anyone who's intrigued by a monster girl romance with a splash of crime fighting and another of political interweavings. The latter I enjoyed despite a history of personal protests that I dislike political dramas.
It's surprising at how one can forget what good writing looks like if you don't see it for long enough. I am impressed with this book. In my opinion it's better than his other series that I've read.
The plot is so much more solid and well thought out. The relationships and diologue likewise have more depth and are well written. I realize it's a slightly different genere. I also add that there were a few thematic choices in the other, longer series that didn't ring well with me. No idea why.
With all that said, I highly recomend it to anyone who's intrigued by a monster girl romance with a splash of crime fighting and another of political interweavings. The latter I enjoyed despite a history of personal protests that I dislike political dramas.
August 14, 2022
Look, I don't necessarily write reviews, normally; but there is if anything I can easily do to get this author more readers, I feel it's deserved.
Because, let me tell you, I was not going into this book expecting the depth of character and world building that I found. I was looking for 'monster' romances, but what I found was a new obsession with their work. I know monsters aren't everyone's cup of tea, but if you are at all curious, I cannot recommend this more.
This is definitely not your stereotypical non human only by name romance, but someone who has put a lot of thought into developing species out of the usual archetype and making sure that they fit in this new world.
Not only are the characters unique and fully individual, the plot is multi-dimensional and has lots of room to grow. I hope to see this series continue to develop.
Because, let me tell you, I was not going into this book expecting the depth of character and world building that I found. I was looking for 'monster' romances, but what I found was a new obsession with their work. I know monsters aren't everyone's cup of tea, but if you are at all curious, I cannot recommend this more.
This is definitely not your stereotypical non human only by name romance, but someone who has put a lot of thought into developing species out of the usual archetype and making sure that they fit in this new world.
Not only are the characters unique and fully individual, the plot is multi-dimensional and has lots of room to grow. I hope to see this series continue to develop.
October 24, 2021
Spicy, Shadows, and Intrigue
Yep the title makes no sense for this review but those words came to my mind when I thought of this book they are probably somewhat repetitive but I like them the book was awesome had me hooked from nearly the start and I’m not all that in the mystery books or detective novels I think this is the first one I’ve ever read no maybe like the third though the other two I don’t know if I ever finished but I really like this interesting also it was said in an interesting setting. The characters feel alive and engaging they’re also not overpowered which makes the story more real you can say that about a fantasy story give it a read it’s entirely worth it.
Yep the title makes no sense for this review but those words came to my mind when I thought of this book they are probably somewhat repetitive but I like them the book was awesome had me hooked from nearly the start and I’m not all that in the mystery books or detective novels I think this is the first one I’ve ever read no maybe like the third though the other two I don’t know if I ever finished but I really like this interesting also it was said in an interesting setting. The characters feel alive and engaging they’re also not overpowered which makes the story more real you can say that about a fantasy story give it a read it’s entirely worth it.
November 25, 2021
A romantic love story with a twist
This story was a very interesting story it started with a type of detective as well as the protector in a society where there's half monster half human hybrids that humans needed protection from in some circumstances. It had some well thought out political intrigue as well as suspense and thriller and then a slow burn love that slowly developed. Some parts of it for me were a little bit twisted but it was also somewhat interesting one of those times that make you go wow. The story is a little bit of who done it detective series love story with a little bit of spiciness thrown in in a slight s&m kind of way. A different kind of story that was entertaining.
This story was a very interesting story it started with a type of detective as well as the protector in a society where there's half monster half human hybrids that humans needed protection from in some circumstances. It had some well thought out political intrigue as well as suspense and thriller and then a slow burn love that slowly developed. Some parts of it for me were a little bit twisted but it was also somewhat interesting one of those times that make you go wow. The story is a little bit of who done it detective series love story with a little bit of spiciness thrown in in a slight s&m kind of way. A different kind of story that was entertaining.
October 20, 2021
Phenomenal Characters!!!
Too many times the main character or supporting cast of stories are vapid brainless creations who make decisions that fall contrary to their nature as required by the plot. Well not here! Some of the best and most strategic character development I have ever read.
Eagerly awaiting sequel!
10000% reccomend purchase whether the storyline seems like your cup of tea or not as the story is character driven and Cebelius successfully invests you in then both.
Cebelius wonderful development professionally, your tradecraft continues to improve with each new project.
Too many times the main character or supporting cast of stories are vapid brainless creations who make decisions that fall contrary to their nature as required by the plot. Well not here! Some of the best and most strategic character development I have ever read.
Eagerly awaiting sequel!
10000% reccomend purchase whether the storyline seems like your cup of tea or not as the story is character driven and Cebelius successfully invests you in then both.
Cebelius wonderful development professionally, your tradecraft continues to improve with each new project.
October 28, 2021
Probably the best book you have done for my opinion
I found this book to be my all time favorite you have written . I have enjoyed reading many of your books and this out did them all to me. You have rich charters and a setting that I couldn't get enough of.I could not put it down till I finished.Please please follow up with another book using this power couple.I would love to see how the charters might deal with her mother at a wedding , would it be in his or her city........you are a writer I look forward to seeing more of your books asap. . Thanks for your hard work it shows in each and every book I have read. Be well till your next book.
I found this book to be my all time favorite you have written . I have enjoyed reading many of your books and this out did them all to me. You have rich charters and a setting that I couldn't get enough of.I could not put it down till I finished.Please please follow up with another book using this power couple.I would love to see how the charters might deal with her mother at a wedding , would it be in his or her city........you are a writer I look forward to seeing more of your books asap. . Thanks for your hard work it shows in each and every book I have read. Be well till your next book.
January 11, 2022
Better than expected
Fantasy alt history monster girl police procedural adult situations
Cebelius is a talented writer. The story is told in third person, but the story focus alternates from chapter to chapter between Detective Inspector Andrew Bremmin and the large arachne noble woman Valise Drainheart. I am not normally an arachne fan as a love interest but Cebelius and another up-and-coming fantasy writer about monster girls is changing my reticence. Worth the effort. Recommended.
Fantasy alt history monster girl police procedural adult situations
Cebelius is a talented writer. The story is told in third person, but the story focus alternates from chapter to chapter between Detective Inspector Andrew Bremmin and the large arachne noble woman Valise Drainheart. I am not normally an arachne fan as a love interest but Cebelius and another up-and-coming fantasy writer about monster girls is changing my reticence. Worth the effort. Recommended.
January 18, 2022
Thoroughly enjoyable read!
The title of this book caught my attention and as I read through the synopsis I decided to give it a try.
Was not disappointed!
The book is well written and thought out, with considerations to several aspects of the Non-Human cultures, biology and behaviour interweaves into the story spectacularly.
Characters are brilliantly written and I loved them and their interactions and the world itself is vast and well thought out with just the hints given to readers so far.
Look forward to reading more!
The title of this book caught my attention and as I read through the synopsis I decided to give it a try.
Was not disappointed!
The book is well written and thought out, with considerations to several aspects of the Non-Human cultures, biology and behaviour interweaves into the story spectacularly.
Characters are brilliantly written and I loved them and their interactions and the world itself is vast and well thought out with just the hints given to readers so far.
Look forward to reading more!
October 26, 2021
oddly outstanding
This was a book I picked up on a whim, based on the description sounding interesting. Then, it turned into a strangely heartwarming story that vaguely resembled that description I mentioned. Amusingly enough, I enjoyed this enough that I finally noted authors name to see what other books may be waiting… finally noticing this is one of my favored authors. VERY much not the norm with this author, which is IMO, all the more impressive.
This was a book I picked up on a whim, based on the description sounding interesting. Then, it turned into a strangely heartwarming story that vaguely resembled that description I mentioned. Amusingly enough, I enjoyed this enough that I finally noted authors name to see what other books may be waiting… finally noticing this is one of my favored authors. VERY much not the norm with this author, which is IMO, all the more impressive.
November 26, 2021
Stellar
In Velise Would You Love a Monster Girl? Cebelius cements his place in the genre, up with the greats, Schinhofen, Bagwell, Krout, and the rest. His first book Mask of the Template stands as one of the best first books in any genre by a new author, and this one is not lacking a single bit. Wasn't sure where the story was going initially but wow excellent job highly recommended
In Velise Would You Love a Monster Girl? Cebelius cements his place in the genre, up with the greats, Schinhofen, Bagwell, Krout, and the rest. His first book Mask of the Template stands as one of the best first books in any genre by a new author, and this one is not lacking a single bit. Wasn't sure where the story was going initially but wow excellent job highly recommended
December 5, 2021
Everything I wanted and More
I cam in expecting a light novel, and got a full novel instead. It's the witty byplay I wanted with some mystery and action mixed in. The plot was able to stand on its own, but the monster girl and world building really cinched it for me. I find myself wanting more of this world, but at the same time I like the ending where it was. Perhaps a new story in the same setting?
I cam in expecting a light novel, and got a full novel instead. It's the witty byplay I wanted with some mystery and action mixed in. The plot was able to stand on its own, but the monster girl and world building really cinched it for me. I find myself wanting more of this world, but at the same time I like the ending where it was. Perhaps a new story in the same setting?
February 23, 2022
Fantastic Monster Girl Romance!!
This book is absolutely fantastic. The writing is just so well done. The MC and Monster girl have wonderful chemistry. The story is good and drives the character interactions, and the world is very interesting and well fleshed out.
If you are looking for a good story and a great monster girl romance, this is the book for you. I liked it so much that even though I read it on KU, I am going to buy it after I submit this review!
This book is absolutely fantastic. The writing is just so well done. The MC and Monster girl have wonderful chemistry. The story is good and drives the character interactions, and the world is very interesting and well fleshed out.
If you are looking for a good story and a great monster girl romance, this is the book for you. I liked it so much that even though I read it on KU, I am going to buy it after I submit this review!
October 9, 2021
That was awesome.
Hahaha that was awesome, you managed to avoid all the overused tropes and themes usually present in this genre and did it well. Also props for what I think may be the only accurate combination of human and spider, good research combined with fantasy both for the physical and personality. D--- well written!
Hahaha that was awesome, you managed to avoid all the overused tropes and themes usually present in this genre and did it well. Also props for what I think may be the only accurate combination of human and spider, good research combined with fantasy both for the physical and personality. D--- well written!
October 16, 2021
Enjoyed this immensely!
I'm usually not a fan of the whole monster girl genre but this story just gripped me.
The fact that political issues and fallout were a prominent part of this work was surprisingly refreshing.
I look forward to more as I am intrigued by the world building and backgrounds of the protagonists.
I'm usually not a fan of the whole monster girl genre but this story just gripped me.
The fact that political issues and fallout were a prominent part of this work was surprisingly refreshing.
I look forward to more as I am intrigued by the world building and backgrounds of the protagonists.
October 18, 2021
Another solid book from my guy Cebelius
Man I've got to say this one is another great story coming from the guy that wrote the template series, even though this one isnt a harem series it's still solid with a main love interest being verry intresting and spidery and our main MC is a solidly written. Cant wait for book 2.
Man I've got to say this one is another great story coming from the guy that wrote the template series, even though this one isnt a harem series it's still solid with a main love interest being verry intresting and spidery and our main MC is a solidly written. Cant wait for book 2.
October 26, 2021
A bit different than my usual read.
A police procedural, mixed with a whiff of Chick lit, A teaspoon of cultural assimilation and a dash of backstabbing politicians. ( is there any other kind?). The story rolls along well for the most part, occasionally becoming mired in arachne infighting. Give it a try and see what you think.
A police procedural, mixed with a whiff of Chick lit, A teaspoon of cultural assimilation and a dash of backstabbing politicians. ( is there any other kind?). The story rolls along well for the most part, occasionally becoming mired in arachne infighting. Give it a try and see what you think.
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